Fort Stewart, a major U.S. Army base in southeast Georgia, was rocked by a shooting that left five soldiers injured.
The incident, occurring at the 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team area, involved Sgt. Quornelius Radford, a 28-year-old automated logistics sergeant, who allegedly used a personal handgun to open fire on his coworkers.
The event triggered a swift lockdown of the base, including its Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA) schools, highlighting the immediate impact on the Fort Stewart community.
What Happened at Fort Stewart?
The shooting began shortly before 11 a.m., with Radford targeting fellow soldiers at his workplace. Witnesses acted heroically, tackling and disarming the suspect, preventing further harm.
By 11:35 a.m., Radford was in custody, and the lockdown was lifted by the afternoon. All five injured soldiers are stable and expected to recover, receiving treatment at Winn Army Community Hospital and Memorial Health University Medical Center in Savannah.
The Army Criminal Investigation Division is probing the motive, which remains unclear, though Radford’s prior DUI arrest in May 2025, unknown to his chain of command, has surfaced as a point of interest.
Heroic Response at Fort Stewart
The quick actions of Fort Stewart soldiers were pivotal. Staff Sgt. Aaron Turner disarmed Radford during a reload, while others provided medical aid, saving lives.
Six soldiers received medals for their bravery, as noted by Army Secretary Daniel Driscoll, who praised their response under pressure. This underscores the resilience within the Fort Stewart community, home to the 3rd Infantry Division and the largest Army installation east of the Mississippi.
Broader Context and Reactions
The Fort Stewart shooting has drawn attention to security protocols on military bases, where personal firearms are heavily restricted. Investigators are examining how Radford brought a handgun to his workplace.
Public figures, including President Donald Trump, condemned the act as an “atrocity,” vowing prosecution to the fullest extent, while Georgia Governor Brian Kemp expressed solidarity with the victims and their families.
Former Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams also thanked first responders for their swift action.
Fort Stewart’s Community Impact
The lockdown affected Fort Stewart’s schools and surrounding Liberty County, with three local schools temporarily secured.
The incident has sparked discussions about mental health and bullying, as former coworkers reported Radford faced relentless mockery over a stutter during his 2018 training, though no direct link to the shooting has been confirmed. This tragedy highlights the need for robust support systems within military communities like Fort Stewart.
Looking Forward
As investigations continue, Fort Stewart remains under scrutiny for its security measures and support for soldiers. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the challenges faced by military personnel and the importance of fostering a safe, supportive environment.
The Army’s commitment to a thorough investigation offers hope for answers and preventive measures.
Sources:
- WSAV-TV: wsav.com
- NBC News: nbcnews.com
- BBC
- CNN: cnn.com
- ABC News: abcnews.go.com
- Fox News: foxnews.com
- FOX 5 Atlanta: fox5atlanta.com
- WTOC: wtoc.com
Disclaimer: This article synthesizes information from reputable sources about the Fort Stewart shooting. Some details remain unverified due to ongoing investigations. Readers are encouraged to consult primary sources for the latest updates.
Additional Context: Fort Stewart’s Broader News
Beyond the shooting, Fort Stewart has been in the news for other events. In March 2025, four soldiers from the base died in a tragic accident during a training mission in Lithuania, underscoring the risks of military service. The base also hosts community initiatives, such as career fairs and family support programs, reflecting its role as a hub for military life in Georgia. These stories highlight Fort Stewart’s multifaceted presence, balancing operational demands with community engagement.
